Woman who shot Iowa City police officer multiple times with BB gun arrested after release from hospital

IOWA CITY — The woman accused of shooting an Iowa City police officer multiple times with a BB gun Monday afternoon has been released from the hospital and arrested.

Cierra M. Lewis, 25, of Iowa City, faces charges of willful injury causing serious injury, a Class C felony, and assault with a weapon on a peace officer, a Class D felony, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation announced Tuesday evening.

Authorities said Lewis was suspected of shoplifting at a business at 11 Highway 1 West around 3:30 p.m. Monday.

Lewis refused an officer's commands and pulled a gun, shooting multiple times at the officer, hitting him in the face and causing a 'serious injury requiring medical treatment,' the DCI said.

Authorities said the officer — who has not been identified — fired his weapon and hit Lewis. The officer has been placed on paid administrative leave while the DCI investigates the officer-involved shooting.

The exchange took place near a bus stop at 1200 S. Riverside Dr.

The woman's weapon was later determined to be a 'replica-style CO2 BB-pistol,' according to Iowa City police criminal complaints.

Records show Lewis was booked at the Johnson County Jail at 4:33 p.m. Tuesday.

Court records show Lewis was arrested for shoplifting earlier this month in Coralville. Police there said Lewis was seen inside the Kum & Go at 205 Second St., around 9:59 p.m. July 2 taking merchandise. She was recognized by store employees when she returned to the store the following day. She faces one count of fifth-degree theft.

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